Cruises from New Orleans are among the most exciting ways to explore the Caribbean and the Bahamas, with the Big Easy offering one of the most vibrant departure ports in the United States. This New Orleans Port Guide explains everything you need to know before setting sail, including cruise lines, destinations, the best time to cruise from New Orleans, and top things to do near the Port of New Orleans.
Last updated: 12 January 2026
Whether you’re planning a 2025 getaway or looking ahead to 2026, starting your cruise at the Port of New Orleans offers far more than just a convenient embarkation point. From world-class cuisine and legendary jazz to vibrant festivals and historic neighbourhoods, New Orleans is a destination in its own right, and the perfect place to begin your cruise holiday.
Why Choose New Orleans as Your Cruise Departure Port?
New Orleans is currently enjoying a major moment on the global stage.
In 2025, the city earned official recognition from UNESCO as a Creative City for Music, celebrating its unparalleled musical heritage and thriving contemporary scene. Visitors can expect exciting new cultural collaborations, expanded performance programmes, and international events honouring New Orleans’ unmatched musical legacy.
Adding to its accolades, New Orleans was named
- #1 Food City in the World by Time Out (March 2025)
- #2 Travel Destination in the U.S. by Travel + Leisure (July 2025)
With global recognition, exceptional value, and unbeatable atmosphere, there has never been a better time to cruise from New Orleans.
When is the best time to cruise from New Orleans?
When Is the Best Time to Cruise from New Orleans?
Although cruises depart from New Orleans year-round, the best time to cruise from New Orleans is between November and April.
✔ The Weather
During fall and winter, New Orleans enjoys mild, pleasant temperatures averaging around 23°C, making it ideal for sightseeing, dining outdoors, and attending festivals. Compared to much of the U.S., the climate is far more comfortable and less humid.
✔ The Festivals
This period also coincides with the city’s most iconic celebrations. The highlight is Mardi Gras (Fat Tuesday), a vibrant, carnival-style festival leading up to Ash Wednesday.
Mardi Gras 2026: Tuesday, 17 February 2026
Mardi Gras 2027: Tuesday, 9 February 2027
Mardi Gras 2028: Tuesday, 29 February 2028
View All Mardi Gras Packages here
Which cruise lines sail from New Orleans?
The Port of New Orleans hosts several world-class cruise lines, each offering a unique onboard experience:
Cruise Lines Offering Cruises from New Orleans
- Norwegian Cruise Line – Ideal for relaxed, all-inclusive cruising
- Royal Caribbean – Known for innovative ships and top-tier entertainment
- Carnival Cruise Line – Perfect for fun-filled trips with friends and family
- Viking River – A popular choice for solo travellers and river-style cruising
No matter your travel style, you’ll find a New Orleans cruise that fits perfectly.
Where do cruises from New Orleans go?
One thing is guaranteed: cruises from New Orleans are lively from start to finish. Most itineraries head to the Western Caribbean or the Bahamas, offering an exciting mix of beaches, adventure, and culture.
🌴 Popular Cruise Destinations from New Orleans
Belize City – Gateway to ancient Mayan ruins and rainforests
Cozumel, Mexico – Crystal-clear waters and unspoiled beaches
CocoCay, Bahamas – Thrilling water parks and private island experiences
Nassau, Bahamas – A vibrant hotspot full of culture and nightlife
Grand Bahama Island – Relaxed, laid-back island vibes
Roatán, Honduras – Lush landscapes and rich marine life
Top Things to Do Before Cruises from New Orleans Depart
Arriving in New Orleans a day or two early is highly recommended. The city is bursting with culture, music, and flavour, making it the perfect place to start your cruise holiday. From legendary jazz clubs to iconic food spots and leafy green spaces, there’s no shortage of unforgettable experiences before you step onboard.
1. Live Music to Enjoy Before Cruises from New Orleans 🎶 🎶
Music is the heartbeat of New Orleans. While Bourbon Street is famous for its neon-lit nightlife and energetic bars, travellers seeking authentic, world-class jazz should head to Frenchmen Street. Here, intimate live-music venues showcase a diverse range of music, from traditional jazz to funk and blues, performed nightly by local talent.
New Orleans also features prominently in our Paramount Music Cities Top Tips guide, where our cruise experts highlight the world’s best destinations for live music lovers. From iconic jazz clubs to intimate live venues, the Big Easy stands shoulder to shoulder with the greatest music cities on the planet, making it the perfect place to begin cruises from New Orleans.
2. Taste the City 🍽️
New Orleans is widely regarded as one of the world’s premier food cities. Venture into the French Quarter to sample legendary Cajun and Creole cuisine, where bold flavours and rich culinary traditions take centre stage.
Don’t miss:
- Café Du Monde – Famous for its coffee and freshly made beignets, a true New Orleans classic
- Local favourites such as gumbo, jambalaya, and po’boys
- The New Orleans Good Times Pass, offering bundled savings on top attractions
3. Explore Art, History & Nature 🌳
Beyond the music and food, New Orleans is packed with cultural landmarks and green spaces. Jackson Square, located in the heart of the French Quarter, is the centre of the city’s art scene, where you can watch street performers, browse local artwork, or even have your portrait painted.
If you need a break from the lively streets, head to City Park. Spanning an impressive 1,300 acres—50% larger than Central Park in New York—it is home to the world’s largest collection of mature Live Oaks, along with botanical gardens and attractions. For a taste of Carnival at any time of year, Mardi Gras World offers a behind-the-scenes look at the famous floats and festivities.
Finish your time in the city with a relaxing stroll along the Mississippi Riverfront, soaking up the atmosphere before your cruise departure.
Extend Your Stay Beyond New Orleans
If you have extra time, New Orleans makes a fantastic gateway to explore more of the United States. You can take an Amtrak train to Memphis, home of Elvis Presley and the legendary Beale Street, or take advantage of excellent flight connections to Miami or New York for a multi-city American adventure.
Paramount Cruises Top Tips
Check out some of the team’s top tips from our previous trips. Find out where to eat, where to drink and what to do in New Orleans in the map below:
Book your New Orleans excursions
Ready to Book Your New Orleans Cruise?
There’s no better place to begin a cruise than the Big Easy. Let Paramount Cruises help you find the perfect itinerary.
📞 Call us on 020 7947 0270 to book your New Orleans cruise today.
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